1930s Amsterdam Home Transformed: Studio &Space Highlights an Iconic Spiral Staircase

Studio &Space Transforms 1930s Amsterdam Home into a Sophisticated Family Haven

Dutch design firm Studio &Space has breathed new life into a timeworn 1930s Amsterdam house, turning it into a luxurious family home adorned with bespoke furnishings and refined finishes reminiscent of a high-end hotel.

The homeowners, a female entrepreneurial couple with two young children, commissioned Studio &Space founder Maike Borst to modernize the property in Amsterdam Zuid after returning to the city from the countryside.

Preserving Heritage, Embracing Modern Comforts

The 275-square-metre interior had not been renovated for decades. Studio &Space undertook an extensive renovation that brought the home up to date while preserving its original charm—bay windows, stained glass, and elegant arched doorways remain central to the design.

“I have always admired 1930s architecture for its craftsmanship, detailing, and simple geometric forms. This house is a beautiful example,” Borst told Dezeen.

One of the home’s standout features is its iconic spiral staircase, which Borst extended to the attic level. “I fell in love immediately with the staircase—it defines the character of the home. From the start, I wanted to honor the original details while designing an interior that respects the home’s heritage.”

Family Living Meets Luxury Hotel Aesthetics

The renovation balances original details with contemporary family needs. The home now includes a gym, sauna, two bathrooms, four bedrooms, a walk-in closet, and a play/TV room. To accommodate these additions, the main house was connected to a garage and a rear shed, creating a seamless internal entrance.

The attic-level gym and sauna were added alongside a dormer window, ensuring functionality without compromising the home’s architectural integrity.

The interior palette draws inspiration from the clients’ travels, particularly to the south of France, where they enjoy staying in luxurious hotels. Rich, tactile materials—aged brass, warm wood, and natural stone—blend with custom and contemporary furnishings, creating a space that feels personal, bold, and intimate.

A Kitchen to Impress

The kitchen, designed in collaboration with Amsterdam-based Eginstill, features a central island with a lacquered relief pedestal and a patterned quartzite countertop that anchors the room. Upholstered bar stools, velour-clad chairs, and a curved dining bench create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, complemented by ambient lighting and a mirrored-back bar.

Bedrooms That Feel Like a Getaway

The principal bedroom evokes a luxury hotel experience, with natural woven wall coverings and a walk-in wardrobe crafted from aged wood. The bathrooms feature tactile materials like onyx countertops, slatted timber accents, art deco-inspired lighting, and aged brass fixtures, balancing sophistication with comfort.

The children’s bedroom is a layered, tactile space featuring a custom-built bunk bed with a playful hideaway, crafted from sculptural wooden panels inspired by the home’s original teak garage doors.

A Thoughtful, Cohesive Renovation

Studio &Space’s renovation honors the home’s 1930s heritage while embracing contemporary needs and family life. The result is a home that feels luxurious yet approachable, sophisticated yet lived-in, and utterly unique—a testament to thoughtful design that bridges past and present.

Other Amsterdam homes recently featured on Dezeen include an apartment in a former sugar refinery and a renovated 1920s Amsterdam School-style house, showcasing the city’s rich architectural diversity.

Expert Advice: 13 Perfect Details for the Summer House

Summer houses have always represented a retreat from the daily grind—a place to relax, reconnect with nature, and embrace leisure. Yet, designing a summer house that feels both effortless and intentional requires attention to detail, from material choices and lighting to furniture placement and decorative accents. This guide explores thirteen carefully curated elements that can elevate any summer house, combining aesthetic appeal, comfort, and practical functionality. Drawing on expert insight, these recommendations show how small touches and thoughtful design decisions can create a harmonious, inviting environment that captures the essence of summer living.

1. Light-Filled Spaces
Natural light is the cornerstone of an ideal summer house. Large windows, skylights, and glass doors maximize sunlight, creating a sense of openness and connection with the surrounding landscape. Position furniture to take full advantage of light throughout the day, and consider light, neutral-colored walls and reflective surfaces to amplify brightness.

2. Outdoor-Indoor Flow
A seamless connection between indoor and outdoor areas enhances the feeling of spaciousness. Sliding or folding doors, covered patios, and deck spaces encourage fluid movement and extend the living area. Outdoor furniture should be comfortable and durable, complementing the indoor aesthetic while inviting relaxation and social gatherings.

3. Timeless Furniture Choices
Opt for furniture that balances comfort with longevity. Natural materials such as rattan, teak, and oak are durable, weather-resistant, and age beautifully over time. Modular seating or lightweight pieces allow flexibility for rearranging layouts according to the number of guests or changing activities.

4. Statement Lighting
Lighting sets the mood and emphasizes architectural features. Pendant lights, lanterns, or sculptural lamps can serve as focal points, while soft ambient lighting ensures a cozy atmosphere in the evening. Strategically placed task lighting in kitchens, reading nooks, or outdoor patios enhances usability without compromising style.

5. Layered Textures
Combining various textures creates depth and tactile interest. Think linen curtains, woven rugs, wooden surfaces, and smooth stone countertops. Textural contrast can make the space feel inviting and multi-dimensional, preventing an overly flat or sterile aesthetic.

6. Functional Kitchen Spaces
Even a summer house requires a fully functional kitchen. Open shelving, compact islands, and clever storage solutions optimize space without sacrificing style. Incorporate durable materials like quartz or solid wood for countertops, and ensure appliances are intuitive and reliable for effortless cooking and entertaining.

7. Nature-Inspired Color Palettes
Soft blues, sandy neutrals, leafy greens, and sun-washed yellows reflect the surrounding environment and reinforce the tranquil, relaxed mood. These shades can be applied to walls, textiles, and accent pieces to evoke a sense of harmony and continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces.

8. Cozy Nooks and Reading Corners
A well-designed summer house includes intimate spaces for quiet reflection. Window seats, built-in benches, or corner armchairs with plush cushions create inviting corners for reading, relaxing, or enjoying morning coffee. Incorporate personal touches like blankets, throws, or small side tables for added comfort.

9. Artful Decor and Personal Touches
Art and decor give character to a summer house. Curate pieces that reflect personal taste and resonate with the natural surroundings, such as framed botanical prints, ceramics, or locally sourced crafts. Avoid overcluttering; instead, choose a few standout elements to create visual interest and storytelling.

10. Practical Storage Solutions
Efficient storage ensures the home remains organized and clutter-free. Built-in cabinetry, under-bed drawers, and multipurpose furniture help maintain a tidy environment. For outdoor gear, consider discrete racks or cupboards near entryways, keeping essentials accessible yet concealed.

11. Sustainable Materials and Green Design
Sustainability is increasingly important in modern summer homes. Utilize eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient appliances, and passive design techniques like cross-ventilation and natural insulation. Solar panels, rainwater collection, and low-maintenance landscaping contribute to a home that is both environmentally responsible and low-stress for owners.

12. Outdoor Entertaining Areas
A key feature of summer living is social interaction. Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, or dining terraces extend the home’s usability and encourage gatherings. Furniture should be durable and weather-resistant, while outdoor lighting and cozy textiles enhance comfort for evening entertaining.

13. Thoughtful Landscaping and Greenery
The surrounding environment is as important as interior design. Integrate landscaping that complements the home’s style, using native plants, flowering shrubs, or potted greenery to create seasonal interest. Pathways, patios, and small garden features can add layers of texture and function to outdoor spaces, ensuring a seamless extension of the living areas.

Conclusion
Designing a summer house that embodies relaxation, style, and practicality requires careful attention to these thirteen elements. From thoughtful lighting and natural materials to cohesive color palettes and outdoor connections, each detail contributes to a space that is both visually stunning and exceptionally livable. By embracing these expert recommendations, homeowners can transform a summer house into a sanctuary—a place where design, comfort, and nature intersect to create a timeless retreat for family, friends, and quiet reflection.

Housing Society Share Certificates: Understanding Their Value and Importance

When you buy an apartment in a housing society, one of the most important documents you need to understand is the housing society share certificate. Many people confuse it with a property ownership document, but it serves a different, yet equally crucial, purpose. A share certificate confirms that you are a member of the housing society and own a share in it. In simple terms, it reflects your stake in the society that owns the building—not direct ownership of the apartment itself.

In today’s digital age, many housing societies now offer the convenience of applying for share certificates online, making the process faster, smoother, and more transparent. Let’s explore everything you need to know about housing society share certificates.

What Is a Housing Society Share Certificate?

A housing society share certificate is an official document issued by the society that confirms an individual owns shares in the society. It establishes your membership and legal rights within the cooperative society, even though it does not directly denote flat ownership.

This certificate is essential for:

  • Property sales – Required when selling your flat.
  • Ownership transfers – Needed to legally transfer membership to another person.
  • Home loan applications – Acts as proof of your stake in the society.

With digital advancements, many societies now allow members to apply online for their share certificates, providing ease and efficiency in accessing this key document.

Why a Housing Society Share Certificate Is Important

  1. Proof of membership – Confirms that you are a legal member of the society and part-owner of its cooperative structure.
  2. Essential for property transactions – Required when selling or transferring your flat.
  3. Legal documentation – Serves as a valid proof in property-related disputes or verification processes.
  4. Avoids delays – Without a certificate, property sales, registration, or legal clearances can be held up.
  5. Compliance verification – Confirms that you have completed all necessary formalities and received society approval.
  6. Represents your stake – Demonstrates your ownership share, ensuring voting rights and participation in society decisions.

Key Guidelines for Housing Society Share Certificates

  • Issuance timeline – Certificates should be issued within six months of property registration or membership approval.
  • Mandatory details – Must include the member’s name, flat number, number of shares owned, along with the society’s stamp and authorized signatures.
  • Single original copy – Only one original certificate is issued per member.
  • Lost or damaged certificate – Requires submitting an affidavit and FIR to obtain a duplicate.
  • Share transfer rules – Any transfer, whether by sale, inheritance, or gifting, must be approved by the society and updated in the official register.
  • Online applications – Members can apply online for convenience, but the final certificate must be printed, signed, and stamped to be legally valid.
  • Record maintenance – The society must maintain accurate records of all certificates issued and transferred.

Following these rules ensures legal and financial transparency and prevents disputes.

How to Apply for a Share Certificate Online

  1. Log in to the portal – Use your registered email or number to access the society’s digital platform.
  2. Navigate to the share certificate section – Usually under “Documents” or “Certificates.”
  3. Fill in required details – Include your name, flat number, purchase date, and other necessary information.
  4. Upload supporting documents – Typically includes sale deed, ID proof, and maintenance receipts.
  5. Submit your application – Double-check your information before submitting.
  6. Society review – The society verifies your documents and approves the request.
  7. Receive confirmation – You may get an acknowledgement or tracking number.
  8. Collect the physical certificate – The final certificate must be collected in person for official stamping and signature.

Common Challenges and Solutions

  • Delays in issuance – Often caused by incomplete documentation. Ensure all required documents are submitted properly.
  • Lost or misplaced certificates – File an FIR and submit an affidavit along with a formal application to obtain a duplicate.
  • Difficulty in transferring shares – Submit a formal transfer application with all proofs and ensure society approval.

What to Do If You Lose Your Share Certificate

Losing a share certificate may feel stressful, but the process is straightforward:

  1. File an FIR at the local police station and keep a copy for your records.
  2. Submit an affidavit stating the certificate is lost.
  3. Submit a formal application to the society.
  4. The society verifies details and may publish a notice before issuing a duplicate certificate.

Conclusion

A housing society share certificate is a critical document that validates your membership and legal rights within a cooperative society. While it does not denote ownership of the flat itself, it is essential for selling, transferring, or obtaining loans against the property.

With the convenience of online applications, obtaining a share certificate has become easier than ever. By following the correct procedures and maintaining proper documentation, society members can ensure legal compliance, transparency, and peace of mind.

Morris Adjmi Clads Atlanta’s Forth Hotel in Striking Concrete Diagrid

Forth Atlanta Hotel Wrapped in Striking Concrete Diagrid by Morris Adjmi Architects

New York-based Morris Adjmi Architects has transformed the skyline of Atlanta’s historic Old Fourth Ward with the design of Forth Atlanta, a 16-storey hotel and members club that fuses bold architectural innovation with sophisticated interiors. Situated just steps from the city’s beloved BeltLine and overlooking a historic park, the new-build property reflects both the industrial heritage and the vibrant, modern energy of the neighborhood.

At the heart of Forth Atlanta’s visual identity is a striking concrete diagrid, a criss-crossing exoskeleton that wraps around the glass tower and defines the building’s presence from every angle. Morris Adjmi Architects carefully crafted this structural feature to serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. “The diagonal columns not only enhance the building’s visual character but also contribute to its structural integrity,” the studio explained. Behind the cast-in-place concrete framework, a window wall allows natural light to flood the interiors while creating an elegant sense of depth and transparency along the façade.

The building’s lower three floors are clad in grey brickwork, a nod to the industrial fabric of nearby Ponce City Market, itself a restored historic complex that now functions as a bustling retail and dining hub. These podium levels extend outward to create terraces, including a 2,300-square-foot open-air terrace with a swimming pool to the south and a more intimate terrace for members to the north, providing the perfect combination of leisure and scenic city views.

Inside, Forth Atlanta blends industrial charm with warm, sophisticated touches. The hotel lobby is expansive yet welcoming, featuring slate floors, dark wood panelling, and textured plaster walls that create a tactile, layered aesthetic. Plush furniture clusters around a statement fireplace clad in thin ceramic tiles, while low ambient lighting enhances the intimate, retreat-like atmosphere. Art and design play a key role in the interiors: a whimsical diorama by Becca Barnet sits behind the concierge desk, incorporating taxidermy foxes, pinned butterflies, and natural foliage to bring curiosity and charm to the space. A painting by Jack Spencer depicts a forest entrance, greeting visitors with a nature-inspired motif, while a BDDW mountain tapestry anchors a seating area with a mix of vintage and contemporary furniture.

The guest rooms and suites continue the theme of refined comfort, with the concrete diagrid casting dynamic shadows across the windows. Interiors feature rich earth tones, textured surfaces, and patterned wallpapers that balance sophistication with warmth, creating spaces that feel both modern and deeply personal.

Forth Atlanta also boasts four distinct dining and drinking destinations, each offering a unique atmosphere. A street-level café and bar provides casual dining, while Il Premio, an Italian steakhouse, impresses with dark wood finishes, jewel-toned accents, and luxurious patterned upholstery. The poolside restaurant and bar, Elektra, channels Mediterranean influences with sage green tones, turquoise accents, and warm wooden furnishings, creating a relaxing outdoor dining experience. On the rooftop, the 1970s-inspired cocktail lounge Moonlight offers a retro yet refined ambiance, with glass-block windows, brown leather sofas, and chrome-finished furnishings and lighting that capture the era’s playful sophistication.

The Forth Atlanta hotel exemplifies how architecture and interior design can merge heritage, modernity, and luxury into a single cohesive experience. From its bold concrete diagrid and terraced podium to its curated interiors and bespoke furnishings, every element is designed to offer guests and members a unique, immersive environment.

Situated in a neighborhood that has undergone remarkable transformation over the last two decades, the hotel sits alongside landmark developments such as Olson Kundig’s glass-clad office buildings and the revitalized Ponce City Market. Forth Atlanta not only contributes to the architectural narrative of the Old Fourth Ward but also elevates the standard of hospitality with a thoughtful balance of aesthetic daring, functional design, and human-centered comfort.

The Long Weekend Edit: 11 Hand-Picked Sales to Shop

Long weekends are a perfect opportunity to relax, recharge, and treat yourself—and savvy shoppers know that they also present a prime moment for scoring deals across fashion, home goods, tech, and lifestyle products. “The Long Weekend Edit: 11 Hand-Picked Sales to Shop” is a curated guide designed to help you navigate the best offers, streamline your shopping experience, and make the most of limited-time promotions. In this comprehensive exploration, we’ll uncover not just the discounts, but the strategy behind smart shopping, ensuring that each purchase is both purposeful and value-driven.

Maximizing Your Shopping Strategy
Before diving into sales, it’s essential to establish a clear approach. Hand-picking items based on personal style, lifestyle needs, and long-term utility is crucial. Rather than succumbing to impulse buys, shoppers can focus on products that blend immediate appeal with lasting value. Consider items that upgrade your home environment, enhance everyday routines, or provide wardrobe versatility. Evaluating sales from this perspective ensures that your purchases serve more than a momentary thrill—they become practical additions to your lifestyle.

Fashion Finds for Every Wardrobe
Long weekend sales often include seasonal fashion must-haves, from statement outerwear to classic wardrobe staples. Look for limited-time discounts on versatile pieces such as tailored blazers, cashmere sweaters, or designer footwear. Accessories, including handbags, watches, and jewelry, often feature notable markdowns, offering opportunities to elevate your look with minimal investment. Strategic shopping also means prioritizing quality over quantity—select pieces crafted from durable fabrics and timeless designs that will remain relevant across seasons.

Home Essentials and Lifestyle Upgrades
Beyond clothing, long weekends are an ideal time to explore sales on home décor, furniture, and kitchenware. From statement lighting fixtures to practical organizational tools, these products enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your living space. Consider investing in high-quality bedding, ergonomic chairs, or multipurpose storage solutions—items that provide long-term comfort and convenience. Limited-time sales may also include outdoor essentials, such as patio furniture or grilling equipment, perfect for enhancing your home’s seasonal versatility.

Technology and Smart Shopping
Tech deals are often among the most anticipated during long weekend sales. Electronics, from smart home devices to laptops, headphones, and tablets, frequently receive significant price reductions. When shopping for tech, prioritize products with robust warranties, favorable reviews, and compatibility with your existing devices. Smart consumers also compare features and consider whether discounted items genuinely meet their needs or simply entice with a lower price tag. This approach ensures you invest wisely in technology that truly improves daily life.

Beauty, Wellness, and Self-Care Finds
Long weekends provide an opportunity to invest in personal wellness, and many sales cater to beauty and self-care enthusiasts. Skincare sets, premium haircare products, and curated wellness packages can often be found at reduced prices. By selecting high-quality items during these promotions, shoppers can create a personalized self-care routine without overextending their budget. Additionally, wellness-focused purchases, such as home exercise equipment or relaxation aids, can contribute to long-term physical and mental health.

Curated Selection of 11 Top Sales
This hand-picked edit highlights eleven of the most compelling sales across categories. Each selection is chosen based on a combination of discount value, product quality, and practical application. By narrowing focus to these standout deals, shoppers can save time while ensuring they capitalize on offers that genuinely enhance their lifestyle. From designer clothing to functional home items, this curated approach makes navigating a crowded sale landscape efficient and effective.

Timing and Availability
A key element of successful long weekend shopping is timing. Limited-time sales often sell out quickly, so planning ahead is essential. Signing up for newsletters, setting alerts, and bookmarking desired items can help secure purchases before popular products disappear. Understanding store policies on returns, exchanges, and price matching also protects against buyer’s remorse, ensuring a seamless experience from cart to checkout.

Sustainability and Conscious Shopping
Modern shoppers increasingly consider the sustainability and ethical implications of their purchases. Hand-picking items with durable materials, responsible manufacturing, or eco-friendly packaging can make long weekend deals both economical and socially conscious. By prioritizing these criteria, shoppers can enjoy discounts while supporting brands that align with their values—a meaningful approach that elevates the impact of each purchase.

Conclusion
“The Long Weekend Edit: 11 Hand-Picked Sales to Shop” is more than a list of promotions—it is a roadmap for strategic, thoughtful, and rewarding shopping. By focusing on carefully curated selections across fashion, home, technology, and wellness, consumers can maximize value while enriching their daily lives. Approaching sales with intentionality, balancing immediate desires with long-term utility, and factoring in quality, style, and sustainability ensures that each purchase is an investment rather than an impulse. With this comprehensive guide, shoppers can confidently navigate long weekend sales, securing products that elevate their lifestyle and provide satisfaction well beyond the holiday.

10 Easy Pieces: Striped Sofas

Striped sofas are one of the most versatile and timeless choices in interior design. With their ability to blend classic appeal with contemporary trends, these statement pieces can elevate virtually any living space. Whether you’re aiming for a bold, modern look or a subtle, traditional aesthetic, incorporating stripes into your sofa design adds visual interest, structure, and personality without overwhelming the room. This blog explores ten accessible and stylish ways to incorporate striped sofas into your home, offering practical advice for layout, color coordination, and complementary décor.

1. Classic Nautical Stripes
Nothing evokes timeless charm quite like navy and white stripes. A sofa with crisp, horizontal stripes can serve as the focal point of a coastal-inspired living room. Pair it with light wood accents, woven rugs, and crisp linen throw pillows to maintain a fresh, airy feel. This combination works particularly well in rooms with abundant natural light, enhancing the sense of space and openness.

2. Bold Contrasting Stripes
For those who crave drama, high-contrast stripes in black and white or deep jewel tones can make a striking visual statement. Such sofas work best in modern, minimalist interiors, where clean lines and monochromatic palettes allow the striped pattern to shine. Balance the boldness with neutral walls, metallic accents, or simple geometric rugs to avoid visual overload.

3. Subtle Tonal Stripes
If you prefer a more understated approach, consider a sofa with tonal stripes—variations of the same color that add texture without competing with other elements in the room. This is ideal for neutral interiors where warmth and cohesion are key. Soft beige, taupe, or gray stripes blend seamlessly with surrounding décor, creating a refined, sophisticated atmosphere.

4. Vertical Stripes for Height
Vertical stripes on a sofa can visually elongate the piece, making low ceilings or compact rooms appear taller. This technique adds elegance and a sense of grandeur to smaller spaces. Complement with a high-backed chair or tall floor lamps to further emphasize verticality while maintaining a balanced composition.

5. Mixed Stripe Directions
Combining vertical, horizontal, or even diagonal stripes within the same piece can create a playful, dynamic look. This approach works particularly well for eclectic or contemporary interiors, where experimentation is encouraged. Keep other elements simple to ensure that the striped sofa remains the room’s centerpiece without clashing with surrounding patterns.

6. Pastel Stripes for Softness
Pastel-striped sofas introduce a gentle, inviting energy to living spaces. Light pinks, mint greens, and soft blues can make a room feel cheerful and tranquil simultaneously. Pair these with light wood furniture, soft throws, and neutral walls to enhance the sense of serenity. Pastel stripes are especially effective in bedrooms, sunrooms, or casual lounges.

7. Earth-Toned Stripes
For a grounded, natural aesthetic, choose earthy stripes in shades of brown, olive, or terracotta. These colors evoke warmth and stability, ideal for living rooms aiming for a cozy, organic feel. Pair with natural fibers like jute rugs, linen curtains, and wooden furniture to create a harmonious, inviting environment.

8. Oversized Bold Stripes
Oversized stripes can make a statement while keeping the décor simple. Large, wide stripes work particularly well in modern, minimalist interiors, providing a strong focal point without excessive ornamentation. To balance the boldness, use solid-colored accent pillows, understated artwork, and neutral rugs to maintain visual harmony.

9. Layered Textures and Stripes
A striped sofa doesn’t have to rely solely on pattern. Combining stripes with textured fabrics—like velvet, boucle, or linen—adds depth and sophistication. This approach works well in transitional interiors, bridging the gap between classic and contemporary styles. Layer with complementary throw blankets or cushions to enhance comfort and visual appeal.

10. Multi-Functional Striped Sofas
Modern living demands multifunctionality. Striped sofas that double as sleeper sofas, sectionals, or storage units combine style with practicality. Opting for stripes ensures that even multifunctional pieces retain a strong visual presence, maintaining elegance without sacrificing function. Neutral or subtle stripes allow the sofa to adapt to different rooms and settings over time.

Conclusion
Striped sofas offer a perfect balance between style and versatility. From bold, high-contrast designs to soft, tonal variations, the possibilities are virtually limitless. When selecting the ideal striped sofa, consider your room’s size, color palette, and overall aesthetic to ensure the piece complements your space seamlessly. By integrating a striped sofa thoughtfully, you can create a focal point that enhances your interior design, adding sophistication, depth, and timeless charm to your home.